2110voices - RT Yankee Wksht

1. Describe the stasis in the play: where, when, who, what, etc. in a paragraph.

Two Asian-American actors, Vincent and Bradley, sat outside a Hollywood Hills party one night and begin casual conversation. Bradley is pleased to see another Asian-American from the industry whom he feels comfortable with and whose work he is familiar with.

2. What is the intrusion?

Conversations become more awkward and tense as the night continues, but what breaks the stasis is Bradley and Vincent start discussing rumors they've heard about one another. Bradley asks about Vincent's countless nose jobs and Vincent inquires about Bradley's inability to hold a job in the industry. The conversation is completely stopped when Bradley mocks Vincent's role in his latest movie and how they made him look like a chimpanzee.

3. What is the unique factor?

Both Vincent and Bradley are Asian-American actors, but they have different views on how they should be successful in the industry. Vincent believes that at the moment, if they are recognized as the stereotypical Asians, then so be it. But Bradley is more bold in wanting to take roles that only portray him on the same level as a Caucasian actor. Bradley's stubbornness is what might be preventing him from taking roles, but Vincent isn't making a name for himself on good terms.

4. What is the dramatic question that should be answered by the end of the play?

Whose idea of success is more beneficial?
Can the two compromise on their views?
Or will one be more swayed by the other?

5. Provide an illustration of the two kinds of exposition that the play has in it.

Known by 1: The interludes that each man has, like when readers see Vincent's willingness to be humiliated at a convention while Bradley is appalled by what is expected of him as a serious actor, emphasizing their opposing views even more.
Known to all: Bradley's supposed murder of a man who harassed his date; information that would lead to another argument between the two.

6. Identify the most theatrical moment in the play and of what importance it seems to be.

The acting class scene where Bradley and Vincent play in a lighthearted version of Godzilla is one of the only times the audience sees more than just conversation in a still setting throughout the play. The scene is significant because of how both characters are able to bond without discussing the acting industry for a moment and not take something so seriously.

7. List some of the themes of the play.

Dignity
Understanding
Friendship

8. Choose one of the two characters in the show and tell me why you decided to choose to discuss him. Then articulate what he wants and what are some obstacles that stand in the way of him getting what he wants?

Bradley: wants more than anything to be represented as a serious actor without abusing his Asian descent. The whole entertainment industry stands as an obstacle for him, but more personally, Vincent discourages his beliefs at some times. Interludes reveal possible casting opportunities that he boldly questions because of the roles they want him to play.

9. Describe some possible images in the play and how does the title help us understand the play.

The dreams each character has may be representative of how they are feeling at that point in their life. Bradley talks about having nothing left inside him so vultures come to devour him and he feels at peace. Vincent dreams of having all of this love for other people, but they only care about him when they can share in his wealth.

10. Briefly define the family relationships that are examined in the play.

Vincent's role to Bradley is not only an acting coach and good friend, but a father figure as well. Bradley mentions early in the play that he always viewed Vincent as someone he looked up to as well. The two act as family by sharing in ideas that the other might not see. It's facing a harsh reality, but ultimately they better each other.